Publication:

Study of different surgical management approach in lower limb varicose veins at tertiary care hospital

Background The present study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the clinical features and management of varicose veins in terms of recurrence and symptoms improvement.

Methods This clinical study was conducted for a period of two years during January 1990 to February 1992. A total of 21 patients who presented with symptoms of varicose veins in lower extremities to Karnataka Medical College Hospital Hubli were involved in the study. After thorough clinical examination and investigation all the patients are subjected to relevant treatment.

Results Long saphenous system is the most common venous system affected by varicosity in 18 (85.7%) cases. Incompetence of perforator veins was seen in about 20 (95.3%) cases. Trendelenburg’s operation was done in all cases of long saphenous involvement. Sub fascial ligation of perforators was done in 2 patients. Wound infection is the common postoperative complication observed in 5 patients. Preoperative stay in hospital was longer in patients with ulcer (13 days), whereas patients with postoperative wound infection (14 days) had longer postoperative stay.

Conclusions This study showed that the prevalence of lower limb varicose veins has a male predominance and is more common in younger age group. Occupation involving standing for longer periods of time is one of the important contributing factors in the development of varicosities. There is no single method of appropriate treatment for all cases. Multiple ligations of saphenous vein and excision of varicosed tributaries were done in 9 patients. If cases are selected properly with good operative technique the complications are negligible.